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Ford Focus ST vs. Subaru Impreza WRX

Automotive Editor

John has been a professional writer, editor, and producer for more than 15 years. His work can be found on TV, radio, web, and various publications throughout the world. He is a graduate of Northwestern University and lives in Cincinnati, Ohio. Most important, he boasts a loaded 1992 Cadillac Brougham d’Elegance in his garage.

The Subaru Impreza WRX, meanwhile, has been laying patches of rubber for quite a few years now. It's the consummate econo-screamer that young kids race in video games.

Which comes out on top in a real-world match-up?

Where the Focus ST Scores

The Focus ST get its own drivetrain not shared with lesser models: a turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder with 252 horsepower and a close-ratio six-speed manual. You can't get an automatic transmission, which should tell you something about the ST's mission. Acceleration is potent, with zero to 60 mph occurring in 6.2 seconds.

Special tuning has been applied to the car's electric-assist steering and stability system, resulting in quick handling and overall agility that exceeds what you get in the standard Focus, no slouch to begin with. And yet the ST still pleases as a daily driver, thanks to a comfortable ride, impressive interior refinement, and available high-tech conveniences.

Where the Impreza WRX Scores

The WRX starts with standard all-wheel drive and performance-spec suspension components for stellar high-speed handling. Power comes from a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder mated to a five-speed manual transmission. With 265 horsepower at its disposal, the WRX scoots from zero to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, the fastest time in this price class.

For those with a serious power fetish, Subaru offers the STI version of the WRX with 305 horsepower and a six-speed manual. The STI achieves zero to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds, putting it close to supercar territory.

Settling the Score

A redesigned WRX based on the new-for-2013 Impreza debuted in 2014, delivering the refinement, style and technology that past models lacked. But the Focus ST has all of those things plus the flexibility to be both a hot rod and daily driving companion.

John has been a professional writer, editor, and producer for more than 15 years. His work can be found on TV, radio, web, and various publications throughout the world. He is a graduate of Northwestern University and lives in Cincinnati, Ohio. Most important, he boasts a loaded 1992 Cadillac Brougham d’Elegance in his garage.